15 hours childcare funding for all 3 and 4-year-olds
All children are entitled to the universal 15 hours free childcare from the term following their third birthday.
| Child born between | Entitlement begins |
|---|---|
| 1 January to 31 March | Summer term (from 1 April) |
| 1 April to 31 August | Autumn term (from 1 September) |
| 1 September to 31 December | Spring term (from 1 January) |
All maintained nursery schools, most day nurseries and pre-schools and some childminders offer funded childcare places.
Your entitlement:
- 570 hours per year
- maximum of 15 hours per week over 38 weeks per year (term time)
- some providers can offer fewer hours per week but for more weeks of the year
How to apply
To apply for a place please contact your chosen childcare provider. The funding will be paid directly to them.
To find a childcare provider in your area please contact the Family Information Service.
For more help or information contact the Early Years Funding Team: